Arrive in St Gervais. Marvel at the mountains for the first time.

St Gervais to Les Contamines. A gentle stroll along the oratories and chapels of the "Route du Baroque", or for the more determined (and already fit!) a 950m climb up to Porcherey, high above the Montjoie valley, for their first really spectacular views before descending likewise to the valley again. (13km, 3½ hrs, CUSs 475m, or 5 hrs, CUSs 1015m) 

The Lacs Jovet circuit. You will be following part of the Tour de Mont Blanc on the Roman legions' original route, returning to Les Contamines for a second night's stay. The goal - to reach the Lacs Jovet, at an altitude of over 2000m. (23km, 6½ hrs, CUSs 1090m). Shorter circuit: since you will return by the same route, the advantage of this day’s walk is that you can go as far as you choose – take a book and chill out in the meadows, or stop and rest at one of the refuges en route. 

Les Contamines to Les Houches. A long and fairly strenuous day taking you into the Chamonix Valley, with two options: medium and frankly challenging. The first plateau reached, common to both routes, the Chalets du Truc, gives you superb views of the bottom of the Glacier de Miage, then either through some unspoilt hamlets and farming communities, or via the Col de Tricot, wild, exposed and breathtaking in all senses. (18km, 6-8 hrs, CUSs 1010-1220m, or 10km, 4½ hrs, CUSs 580m with short bus transfer to start)

Les Houches to Servoz. A well-merited easier day, through woods and meadows to quiet Lac Vert, before descending to the charm of Servoz. If you have the energy take a trip up the Gorges de la Diosaz with their mountain torrents in the evening! (14km, 4½ - 5 hrs, CUSs 710m - or 520 if leave out Lac Vert) 

Servoz to Chamonix (Les Bossons). Two options, including the opportunity to reach the high pastures at 1900m, or stay in the woods lower down, then visit the Parc du Merlet where you can see chamois and marmot and finish up with a swim in the outdoor swimming pool at your Hotel. (12km, 4½-6 hrs, CUSs 840m, 2½ hrs more - CUSs 1180m - with the higher option) 

Day 7

Chamonix – Aiguille du Midi – Chamonix. The climax of your week - a final (optional) trip up a cable car to over alt. 3800m, for the best views, weather permitting, in the Alps, a walk along the Grand Balcon Nord, and a dramatic view of a glacier, returning to Chamonix via the cog railway for your last night's celebrations. (7km, 3–3½ hrs, CUSs 200m) 

Depart hotel (or choose to stay further nights).